The Federal Government has launched an inquiry into allegations of fraud in the National Social Investment Programme, NSIP.
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, made the announcement at a press conference in Abuja.
The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, stated that the Ministry has reinforced its systems thoroughly to eradicate all irregularities and prevent similar situations in the future.
“When it came to our notice that there may have been sharp practices by some personnel of the Payment Service Provider involved in the payment processes of beneficiaries, the matter was immediately referred to ICPC for thorough investigation. We are aware that certain persons have consequently been invited for interrogation as part of the ongoing investigations
“To this end we are in close collaboration with 1CPC to support the successful determination of the investigation.”
The Minister further noted that in a bid to ensure transparency and accountability in the implementation of N-Power and other National Social Investment Programmes, the Ministry has over time involved other government parastatals, Security Agencies and Civil Society Organizations in monitoring and compliance checks across the 36 states of the country and the FCT.
“We want to assure all N-POWER beneficiaries of Federal Government’s continued commitment to the programme and the subsequent exit/off-boarding channels activated.
” All program beneficiaries should therefore continue to apply themselves to their utmost at their Places of Primary Assignment. All monthly stipends will continue to be paid in line with program expectations.”
The Minister, therefore, called on members of the public to come forward with information on any irregularities noticed in the implementation of the National Social Investment programme.
